This research explores the law enforcement view of serious organised crime in Scotland set within a framework that explores organised crime in terms of its history, definition, group structure, violence and its capacity for corruption. While the focus of the work is on organised crime groups operating in Scotland, organised crime is a global phenomenon consequently, the research draws upon both national and international sources, exploring the literature, research, legal rules, conventions and protocols. The research is however centered upon law enforcement perceptions of serious organised crime as it is manifest in Scotland. Therefore, this dissertation reports the views of Scottish law enforcement personnel obtained using both quantitative and qualitative methods.